Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.
The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Paul's Incendiary Retort
Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The event also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and lightly touched his chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The unusual aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”
Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”